Take Flight: Lamar Thomas on Building an Inclusive Brand Rooted in Youth, Community, and Purpose

Hi Lamar, thank you so much for taking the time to share what you’re building with our readers — we’re excited to dive into what’s next for you. Let’s jump right in. You’re currently working on new partnerships, including one with AGA focused on youth and athletics. What inspired you to lean more intentionally into youth-focused collaborations, and what impact do you hope these partnerships create?
Well, considering I am an educator and already work with the youth, I see them everyday and understand that they are our future. We have to pour into them as much as we can in many different ways for not just them but for us as well. Show and teach them things we learned and know now as adults that we didn’t know when we were their age. Giving them the “blueprint” to many careers and access to many doors.

You’re also preparing to release athletic gear this year, with a strong emphasis on youth and plus-size offerings. Why was it important for you to expand your product line in a more inclusive direction, and how does that reflect your broader mission?
I feel we are in the phase where everyone wants to go to the gym. Everyone is seeking that “good look”. This is honestly and trial that we are doing and seeing where it will go. For the plus sizes a lot of brands and retail stores really don’t sell plus size clothing especially for the streetwear culture so we definitely want to add that to the brand and make them apart of our family.

Volunteering is becoming a bigger focus for you this year. What role does giving back play in your work, and how do you envision community involvement shaping the future of your brand?
Can’t grow without a community. Showing and being more involved in the community that basically got us started is the only right thing to do. Investing in the community In various ways I feel can lead to a long relationship between the brand and the supporters.

As you connect with more companies and build strategic relationships, what qualities do you look for in potential partners to ensure the collaboration feels aligned and meaningful?
Brand awareness for sure, honest communication to help both of us build and not just be one sided, effort from both parties, growth for both parties.

Looking ahead, what excites you most about this upcoming chapter — and how do you hope people, especially young athletes, feel when they interact with your brand and products?
I want them to understand the true meaning of Take Flight, it’s not just a clothing brand it’s a way of life. Taking Flight in everything you do and doing it the best you can at all times.